North Carolina is diverse, with coastal beaches and mountainous regions, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. North Carolina is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Smoky Mountains, and Outer Banks, as well as popular tourist destinations like the North Carolina Zoo and USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial. The state is home to several major universities, including North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It also offers historic sites like the Biltmore Estate and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

There is a strong sports culture in North Carolina, with popular teams including the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Carolina Hurricanes (NHL), and Charlotte Hornets (NBA) and a rabid college sports scene. North Carolina also has a vibrant arts and theater scene, with some of the country's most prestigious performance venues, like the Durham Performing Arts Center and the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.

With an affordable cost of living, abundant job opportunities, high quality of life, stunning natural beauty, top-notch education, and a wealth of cultural offerings, North Carolina is a top choice for many looking for a great place to live.

Rental Market Trends

Cleveland County, NC

As of August 2025, Cleveland County's rental market is balanced, with an even mix of renter demand and available inventory leading to typical leasing times. Cleveland County's average rent is 31.5% ($495) lower than the North Carolina average of $1,573 and 39.8% ($712) lower than the U.S. average of $1,790.

Average Rent

$1,078

Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change

3.4% ($38)

Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change

5.8% ($59)

Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market

Unit Type	Average Rent	Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change	Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
1 Bed	$925	1% ($9)	0.6% ($6)
2 Beds	$1,107	3% ($32)	2.9% ($31)
3 Beds	$1,372	0.9% ($12)	1.8% ($24)

Cities within Cleveland County	Average Rent	Avg. Rent vs. ClevelandAverage Rent vs. Cleveland County	Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
Shelby	$1,076	0.2% ($2)	32 days
Kings Mountain	$1,334	23.7% ($256)	57 days

Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cleveland County Rental Market FAQs

Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Cleveland County, NC.

What is the average rent in Cleveland County, NC?

The average rent in Cleveland County, NC is $1,078 per month.

What is the rental price range for homes in Cleveland County, NC?

Homes in Cleveland County typically rent for between $648 and $1,784 per month, with an average of $1,078 per month.

What is the average rent for different bedroom sizes in Cleveland County, NC?

In Cleveland County, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $925 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $1,107 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $1,372 per month.

How do rent prices in Cleveland County, NC compare with the national average?

The average rent in Cleveland County is 39.8% ($712) lower than the national average of $1,790 per month.

How have rent prices in Cleveland County, NC changed recently?

The average rent in Cleveland County has decreased by 3.4% ($38) in the last month and increased by 5.8% ($59) over the past year.

How competitive is the rental market in Cleveland County, NC?

The rental market in Cleveland County, NC, is currently balanced, with an even mix of renter demand and available inventory leading to typical leasing times.

How long do rentals stay on the market in Cleveland County, NC?

In Cleveland County, NC, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 53 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.

How many rental properties are available in Cleveland County, NC?

There are currently 32 rental properties available in Cleveland County, NC.

Can I afford to rent a home in Cleveland County, NC?

Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $44,280 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Cleveland County.